Poverty hangs on even as Ohio economy improves(Chillicothe Gazette, January 30, 2013)In the 2013 Assets & Opportunity Scorecard, Ohio was ranked 36 out of the 50 states for fostering conditions that allow residents to achieve financial security. The scorecard is an annual report produced by a Washington, D.C.-based advocacy organization for low- and middle-income families called the Corporation for Enterprise Development.

Defense cuts blamed for first downturn in economy since 2009(Dayton Daily News, January 30, 2013)Dayton regional leaders and thousands of civilian workers at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base have braced for the potential effects of automatic spending cuts known as sequestration, beginning March 1, coupled with the March 27 expiration of a continuing resolution that has frozen federal spending at last year's level - less than what was budgeted for fiscal year 2013.

Progress is measured by the bulldozer's pace in Youngstown. The hobbled Ohio steel giant has lost more than 100,000 residents since the 1950s and has been racing to tear down the now dilapidated homes jobless workers left behind.

Even during the worst recession since the 1930s, this region has made exceptional progress. No comparable metropolitan area has seen investments in everything from major infrastructure to cultural anchors on the scale that Cleveland has.

Editorial: Kasich the frustrated(Akron Beacon Journal, February 3, 2013)When John Kasich unveiled JobsOhio, he championed the benefits of bringing a private sector spirit to public efforts in economic development. A more nimble and flexible state would move at the speed of business. That was the idea. The reality has been frustrating for the governor, with JobsOhio at the center of a lengthy court battle, critics arguing the program violates the state constitution by routing public money into private enterprises.

Cities' hearts beating strong in Ohio's three C's(Columbus Dispatch, February 4, 2013)Now, after many years and a combined investment of about $10 billion, Ohio's three largest cities are enjoying downtown booms that have added residents, jobs, economic impact and vibrancy.

Edited and compiled by: Molly Schnoke, Center for Community Planning & Development, Maxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs, Cleveland State University